Downe Bank Collection

Woodland and downland habitat, Charles Darwins Orchis Bank, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Common Spangle Gall Wasp (Neuroterus quercusbaccarum) galls, on underside of Oak (Quercus sp. ) leaf
Common Spangle Gall Wasp (Neuroterus quercusbaccarum) galls, on underside of Oak (Quercus sp.) leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Common Froghopper (Philoenus spumarius) adult, resting on Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) stem, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Common Rockrose (Helianthemum nummularium) and Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis) flowerbuds, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Spurge Bug (Dicranocephalus medius) adult, basking on corrugated tin put down for surveying reptiles, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Tachinid Fly (Tachina fera) adult, resting on leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Mirid Bug (Miris striatus) adult, on leaf in undergrowth, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Chequered Hoverfly (Melanostoma scalare) adult, resting on leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Woodland and downland habitat with information board, Charles Darwins Orchis Bank, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Mirid Bug (Grypocoris stysi) adult, resting on leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Hazel Leaf-roller Weevil (Apoderus coryli) adult, clinging to underside of leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Meadow Plant Bug (Leptopterna dolabrata) adult female, clambering over Quaking Grass (Briza media) flowers, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, june

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) flowering, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Green Leafhopper (Cicadella viridis) adult, resting on stem, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

Banded Mosquito (Culiseta annulata) adult, resting on leaf, Downe Bank Nature Reserve, North Downs, Kent, England, august

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Welcome to Downe Bank, a stunning nature reserve located in the heart of the North Downs, Kent, England. This enchanting place is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you explore this picturesque landscape, you'll be captivated by the beautiful woodland and downland habitat that surrounds you. The towering trees provide shelter for an array of species, while the open grasslands offer breathtaking views across the countryside. One of the highlights at Downe Bank is Charles Darwin's Orchis Bank. Named after the renowned scientist himself, this area boasts an impressive display of orchids that bloom during springtime. It's truly a sight to behold. Keep your eyes peeled for fascinating creatures as you wander through this natural paradise. You might come across Common Spangle Gall Wasps creating intricate galls on oak leaves or spot a Common Froghopper resting delicately on a Common Spotted Orchid stem. If insects intrigue you, don't miss out on observing Meadow Plant Bugs clambering over Quaking Grass flowers or marvel at Kite-tailed Robberflies perched gracefully on leaves. Every step reveals another hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The vibrant colors of Red Clover flowerheads will catch your attention in August while nearby; Pyramidal Orchids and Common Rockroses showcase their budding beauty. These delicate blooms add splashes of color against the lush green backdrop. For those interested in reptiles, keep an eye out for Spurge Bugs basking on corrugated tin sheets used for surveying purposes – they're quite photogenic. And if flies fascinate you too (they should. ), Tachinid Flies and Mirid Bugs can be found resting peacefully among leaves throughout summer months. Last but not least, don't forget to admire Chequered Hoverflies as they elegantly perch upon leaves – their distinctive markings are simply mesmerizing.